WO2022081029A2 - Systèmes et procédés de distribution de café comprenant des récipients de fourniture de café - Google Patents

Systèmes et procédés de distribution de café comprenant des récipients de fourniture de café Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022081029A2
WO2022081029A2 PCT/PT2021/050032 PT2021050032W WO2022081029A2 WO 2022081029 A2 WO2022081029 A2 WO 2022081029A2 PT 2021050032 W PT2021050032 W PT 2021050032W WO 2022081029 A2 WO2022081029 A2 WO 2022081029A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
supply container
passage
discharge
supply
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/PT2021/050032
Other languages
English (en)
Portuguese (pt)
Other versions
WO2022081029A3 (fr
Inventor
Rui Miguel Nabeiro
Original Assignee
Novadelta - Comércio E Indústria De Cafés, Lda
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Novadelta - Comércio E Indústria De Cafés, Lda filed Critical Novadelta - Comércio E Indústria De Cafés, Lda
Priority to BR112023006187A priority Critical patent/BR112023006187A2/pt
Priority to EP21819242.5A priority patent/EP4227233A2/fr
Publication of WO2022081029A2 publication Critical patent/WO2022081029A2/fr
Publication of WO2022081029A3 publication Critical patent/WO2022081029A3/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
    • B65D1/12—Cans, casks, barrels, or drums
    • B65D1/20—Cans, casks, barrels, or drums characterised by location or arrangement of filling or discharge apertures
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/04—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for dispensing annular, disc-shaped, or spherical or like small articles, e.g. tablets or pills
    • B65D83/0409—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for dispensing annular, disc-shaped, or spherical or like small articles, e.g. tablets or pills the dispensing means being adapted for delivering one article, or a single dose, upon each actuation
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
    • Y02W30/00—Technologies for solid waste management
    • Y02W30/50—Reuse, recycling or recovery technologies
    • Y02W30/80—Packaging reuse or recycling, e.g. of multilayer packaging

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of systems and processes for dispensing coffee to a plurality of locations in which beverage preparation apparatus, such as espresso and other coffee-based devices, are operated.
  • beverage preparation apparatus such as espresso and other coffee-based devices
  • Such devices are operated on the basis of containers that supply said roasted and ground coffee bean, either manually, for example through discharge to filter holder-type devices, or automatically, to beverage extraction devices. .
  • Such containers are often provided associated with at least one of roasting means and milling means.
  • Examples of containers for dispensing coffee beans to such supply containers are known.
  • US 7, 074, 443 B2 discloses a package for containing roasted and ground coffee beans under atmospheric pressure.
  • WO 2009/224653 A1 and WO 2018/106631 A1 disclose packaging systems for providing roasted and ground coffee beans. In the first case it is a case of circular cross-section provided in a rigid material, while in the second case it is a case of a rectangular cross-section package provided in a flexible material.
  • the coffee bean supply being a granulated type medium
  • the coffee bean supply is usually distributed to consumption places in bag-type packages, which in the case of roasted coffee beans are usually sealed in inert atmospheres in order to minimize the degradation of the properties of the coffee bean.
  • coffee bean bags are usually provided relatively small, for example 1 kg in weight, and are grouped in cardboard packages which are in turn arranged on pallets.
  • containers for feeding coffee bean to roasting and/or grinding means associated with beverage preparation apparatus in places of consumption are known.
  • This type of supply containers is usually configured so that it can be detachably retained in said roasting and/or grinding means.
  • these supply containers have relatively small dimensions and the supply of coffee beans is carried out in a gravitational manner. Examples of supply containers adapted so that they can collect coffee beans and operate with roasting means and/or grinding means at consumption sites are disclosed by documents EP 2344013 B1, EP 2653082 B1.
  • the state of the art includes several solutions relating to coffee bean distribution systems and processes to a plurality of consumption locations.
  • the still common solution is to use small-sized coffee bean containers that can be manipulated manually.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide systems and processes for the distribution of coffee bean or substance derived therefrom, from at least one place of supply and to a plurality of places of consumption geographically distant from each other, said systems and processes being more efficient in terms of the use of energy and materials, including with a substantial reduction in the amount of packaging materials and transport energy, in particular per unit weight of the product distributed.
  • This reduction of packaging material is relevant because the transport of coffee beans requires materials with barrier properties to the transmission of ultraviolet and the transfer of water vapor or oxygen, and these are materials that are difficult to recycle or dispose of by composting, as well as relatively expensive materials.
  • a first objective is to provide supply containers that reduce the amount of packaging material used, simplify handling of unloading operations, as well as improve the operability of such containers at consumption locations, thereby reducing operating costs. associates.
  • the system can include a supply container adapted so that it can be refilled multiple times ex situ and so that it can be provided in an operative position in situ where it can be operated on discharge, and where a passage can be detachably connected. to discharge means which provide drain connection of the supply container remotely from the beverage preparation apparatus.
  • the objective is realized through a system that includes reusable supply containers adapted so that they can collect coffee beans with characteristic advantageous dimensions and that they can be operated remotely with respect to beverage preparation apparatus.
  • the supply containers can have a collection volume between 0.005 and 0.1 m 3 , preferably between 0.01 and 0.05 m 3 .
  • the supply containers may have at least one characteristic dimension greater than 20 cm and less than 1.5 m, preferably greater than 30 cm and less than 90 cm.
  • the supply containers can be transported to a place of consumption and can be operated to discharge the entire respective amount of coffee beans at this place of consumption.
  • the supply containers can be adapted so that they can supply coffee beans to at least one of coffee bean roasting and grinding means that can be operatively associated with beverage preparation apparatus.
  • the discharge connection of the supply containers downstream thereof can be carried out in a gas-sealed conduit connection with respect to the outside, so that the coffee bean is not exposed to the outside environment.
  • the supply containers may supply coffee beans to supply containers provided upstream of the coffee bean roasting and/or grinding means, said supply containers having a smaller collection volume than the containers. of supply, and both of said container types being adapted for multiple uses.
  • the charge to be collected in the supply container can be green coffee beans or roasted coffee beans, or a derived substance, such as a coffee beverage extract.
  • the coffee bean collected in a continuous volume of the transport container can collect the load under conditions of an inert gas atmosphere and/or in overpressure, in order to preserve the organoleptic properties of the same in time.
  • places of consumption include places of public consumption, such as cafes and restaurants, which include one or more beverage preparation systems, and places of private consumption.
  • Beverage preparation apparatus may include a beverage preparation machine adapted so that it can cycle through extracting an individual portion of the roasted and ground coffee bean.
  • the beverage apparatus may further comprise pressurized and heated fluid supply means in flow connection with said beverage preparation devices.
  • the beverage preparation apparatus may further comprise at least one of: coffee bean roasting means and coffee bean grinding means, provided in supply connection to beverage preparation devices which discharge beverage into a drinking vessel.
  • the coffee bean roasting means can be associated with a container which can be provided in upstream flow connection of the coffee bean grinding means.
  • the coffee bean grinding means can be arranged remotely from the beverage preparation devices, so that the supply of ground coffee beans to the beverage preparation devices is done manually.
  • beverage preparation apparatus including for example machines for preparing espresso coffee and similar beverages, operated on the basis of coffee bean mills which can be operated with filter holders also operable as beverage preparation devices, are known in the state of the art, so a more detailed description of these is waived.
  • the coffee bean grinding means can be associated in direct flow connection with the beverage preparation devices so that the supply of ground coffee bean thereto is by conduit type connection or the like.
  • An associated object of the present invention is to provide supply containers with traceability in the course of distribution, and better operation at discharge.
  • the above object is solved in accordance with the present invention by means of a supply container adapted so that it can be uniquely identified, at least in an operative discharge position in which a beverage preparation apparatus can be dispensed, in particularly in an operative position remote from said beverage preparation apparatus.
  • the supply container may have or be associated with at least one of:
  • - information means including a unique identification of the recipient and adapted so that at least this information can be automatically learned and communicated to nearby data means, and
  • - data means adapted so that they can be automatically functionally linked with nearby data means, so that the container can be unambiguously tracked at least during its stay at the place of consumption.
  • the delivery container can still be uniquely tracked on at least one of: along the delivery path to a place of consumption, and on the way back to a place of delivery, in particular through functional connection of means of data with nearby data media.
  • the supply container can be adapted so that a corresponding unique identification can be automatically grasped, if correctly arranged in an operating position of download, in particular with information means oriented towards first grasping means operatively linked to nearby data means.
  • the supply container is adapted so that data relating to at least one parameter associated with at least one of: unique identification of the container, distribution to a place of consumption, presence at a place of consumption and operation of the container on discharge, can be exchanged via data means in functional connection with proximity data means.
  • the supply container may have identification means associated with its surroundings, and further including at least one of: type of container, nominal charge amount, type of coffee, the identification means preferably being provided encoded, including in the form of alphanumeric symbols or graphics, and in such a way that they can be grasped by automatic means of contact grasping, such as electrical connection means, or non-contact grasping, such as by electronic means of image acquisition and processing.
  • the supply container can be associated with data means adapted so that it can communicate time-varying data and associated with at least one of: coffee origin, destination consumption place, presence in discharge operative position, open passage condition or closed, connection of passage to discharge means, period of actuation of the flow regulation device associated with the passage of the container.
  • the supply container may be associated with provided data means so that it can exchange data with at least one of: preferably within a radius of at least 20 m, proximity data means, including associated with beverage preparation appliances, in particular those within a radius of proximity, including within a radius of at least 10 m, preferably within a radius of at least 40 m; and remote data media. It is preferred when said functional connection can be established in case of reciprocal validation of functional connection, for example of the "hand-shake" type or similar.
  • the supply container may be associated with data means which include data communication means via at least one of: wired links and wireless links, and which may further have at least one of: data encoding means, data processing means. It is preferred when the supply container can be associated with data media adapted so that it can communicate over wireless links, including short-range data links, such as WI-FI and the like.
  • the supply container can be associated with data media configured so that they can automatically detect the presence of different types of nearby data media if they are within their respective proximity perimeters thereto.
  • the supply container can be associated with data means that can be functionally associated with a user interface, for example button-type, digital screen or similar, adapted so that it can provide at least one of: type designation and characteristics of the device; content, reading of quantity and conditions inside the container, designation of consumption location, indication of data connection status.
  • data means can be functionally associated with a user interface, for example button-type, digital screen or similar, adapted so that it can provide at least one of: type designation and characteristics of the device; content, reading of quantity and conditions inside the container, designation of consumption location, indication of data connection status.
  • the supply container may have at least one of: means for generating energy, for example in the form of photovoltaic means, and means for storing energy, for example in the form of electric energy batteries, said storage means being of power can be provided so that they can supply at least the data media, preferably so that they can operate for at least 48 hours, preferably at least 72 hours without connection to an external power source.
  • a related object of the present invention is to provide a process for dispensing coffee to a plurality of geographically distant consumption places, in conditions of better quality conservation of the quality of the coffee beans in storage and better efficiency of operation in the places of consumption.
  • the above objective is solved through a process comprising successive cycles in which a supply container can be placed in at least one of: different consumption locations and different operative discharge positions at a consumption location, in different distribution cycles of the same.
  • the method may include a plurality of distribution cycles between a supply location and geographically distant consumption locations, each cycle including the transport of a supply container, by a transport vehicle with respective means of displacement, up to at least at least one, up to at least one, or up to a plurality of consumption locations, unloading a number of supply containers at each consumption location, and returning the containers back to a supply location for refilling, and starting of a new cycle.
  • the process may include a plurality of operations for transporting and delivering coffee beans from the place of supply to at least one of: roasting means and grinding means at consumption places, including loading coffee beans into a container, discharging coffee bean from a container, and supplying coffee bean to at least one of: coffee bean roasting and grinding means, in all said steps, respective storage periods and transitions between containers, the coffee bean is kept in conditions of airtightness to the ambient atmosphere.
  • the process may include successive cycles of dispensing a load of coffee bean, or substance derived therefrom, into supply containers presenting data means, each cycle including the following successive steps:
  • the method may include unloading the supply container out of the transport vehicle, this unloading being carried out using at least one of: unloading means and displacement means that can be associated with the container, and not manually only.
  • the recipient periodically communicates with remote data media, including via nearby data media, throughout the duration of each cycle.
  • At least the movement and operation of the supply container at a place of consumption includes automatically establishing a functional connection, preferably by wireless network, between the container and nearby data means which are in a pre-defined proximity perimeter of the recipient and which present valid communication credentials, for example via a "handshake" protocol or the like.
  • Periodic communication between recipients and remote data media may include communication of a unique identification of the recipient and a unique identification of the nearby data media with which it is paired at any given time.
  • Operating the discharging supply container may include at least two of the following steps:
  • the operation of the supply container on discharge from a passage therein may include at least one of:
  • - unloading measured amounts of coffee including depending on requests obtained by means of close data, for example portions of roasted and ground coffee beans, for example from 4 to 12 g, preferably from 5 to 10 g, to be supplied to beverage preparation devices.
  • Figure 1 a first form of realization of a vehicle
  • Figure 2 a second embodiment of a vehicle (1) and a supply container (3);
  • Figure 3 a third embodiment of a vehicle (1) and a supply container (3);
  • Figure 4 an embodiment of a supply container (3) with respective displacement means (30);
  • Figure 5 schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the system according to the present invention.
  • Figure 6 schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the system according to the present invention.
  • Figure 7 a perspective view of an embodiment of a supply container (3)
  • Figure 8 a perspective view of another embodiment of a supply container (3)
  • Figure 9 a side sectional view of a supply container (3)
  • Figure 10 a side sectional view of another supply container (3)
  • Figure 11 a side elevational view of an embodiment of a supply container (3) ;
  • Figure 12 a side elevational view of different types of dispensing containers (3, 3');
  • Figure 13 a side view of an embodiment of displacement means (30) associated with the supply container (3), in a first mode of operation thereof;
  • Figure 14 a side view of an embodiment of displacement means (30) associated with the supply container (3), in a second mode of operation thereof;
  • Figure 15 a first way of operating a supply container (3) connected to discharge means (7);
  • Figure 16 a second way of operating a supply container (3) connected to discharge means (7);
  • Figure 17 first functional form of data communications in a system according to the present invention.
  • Figure 18 a first embodiment of a coffee dispensing process according to the present invention.
  • Figure 19 second functional form of data communications in a system according to the present invention
  • Figure 20 a second embodiment of coffee dispensing process.
  • Figure 21 a third embodiment of the coffee dispensing process
  • Figure 22 a fourth embodiment of coffee dispensing process.
  • the present invention will be described on the basis of embodiments with consumption sites (A) which include beverage preparation machines based on roasted and ground coffee beans, for example espresso coffee and the like.
  • consumption sites A which include beverage preparation machines based on roasted and ground coffee beans, for example espresso coffee and the like.
  • A beverage preparation machines based on roasted and ground coffee beans
  • espresso coffee for example espresso coffee and the like.
  • the aforementioned places of consumption (A) are geographically distant from each other.
  • Coffee dispensing systems and processes include the use of supply containers (3) adapted so that they can be refilled multiple times ex situ, at a supply location (B), and so that they can be moved by displacement means ( 30) to an operative discharge position (I) within consumption location doors (A), wherein a container passage (31) (3) can be detachably connected to discharge means (7) providing connection outlet of the container (3) remotely from the beverage preparation apparatus, and in which they can be operated in discharge.
  • Said supply container (3) is thus configured so that it can be reused in a plurality of distribution cycles between a supply location (B), where the container (3) is loaded, and at least one, or a plurality of places of consumption (A) distanced geographically with each other, in which coffee beans are unloaded.
  • Figure 1 represents a transport vehicle (1), in this case a freight truck type vehicle, which includes displacement means (2), in this case an engine operatively connected to a wheel train, and adapted so that it can transport a plurality of reusable supply containers (3) having a passage (31) provided in the container housing (32) and adapted for connection to discharge means (7) available at the place of consumption (A) - as will be described in more detail lower.
  • displacement means (2) in this case an engine operatively connected to a wheel train, and adapted so that it can transport a plurality of reusable supply containers (3) having a passage (31) provided in the container housing (32) and adapted for connection to discharge means (7) available at the place of consumption (A) - as will be described in more detail lower.
  • the supply container (3) can have a housing (32) with a general tubular-like shape, for example cylindrical-like, or a general shell-like shape, for example parallelepiped or partially spherical, which encloses a collection volume adapted for collection of a flowable substance, said envelope (32) being adapted so that it can provide barrier to transmission of ultraviolet and transfer of water vapor and transfer of oxygen to the interior.
  • a housing (32) with a general tubular-like shape, for example cylindrical-like, or a general shell-like shape, for example parallelepiped or partially spherical, which encloses a collection volume adapted for collection of a flowable substance, said envelope (32) being adapted so that it can provide barrier to transmission of ultraviolet and transfer of water vapor and transfer of oxygen to the interior.
  • the supply container (3) is configured so that it can present, or can be detachably or only under load, associated with respective displacement means (30) configured so that it can be retained, preferably detachably, to a respective container (3).
  • the containers (3) can be moved with the support of said displacement means (30).
  • the supply containers (3) can be moved in this way, by said displacement means (30), on-board to out-board of the transport vehicle (1), as well as such as into the doors of a consumption location (A), or other locations.
  • the transport vehicle (1) can be associated with unloading means (4), for example of the circulation ramp or lifting platform type, adapted so that they can provide the loading and unloading of containers (3) individually or in groups of numbers. maximum 6, preferably maximum 4.
  • the transport vehicle (1) can also have nearby data means ( 5V ) adapted so that they can regulate the operation of at least one of: the locomotion means (2) and unloading means (4), and operate in data link with remote data means (20).
  • the data means ( 5V ) and the power means ( 6V ) of the vehicle are advantageously adapted so that they can provide propulsion autonomy and data communication to the transport vehicle (1), which is preferably an autonomous vehicle capable of visiting each consumption location (A) and operating the unloading of supply containers (3) without direct human intervention.
  • the supply containers (3) are adapted so that they can be stacked and transported in transport vehicles (1) in stacks of at most 4, preferably at most 3 in height.
  • the containers (3) can in this case be moved out and transported into the doors of a place of consumption (A) through manually actuated displacement means (30), for example of a wheelbarrow type, or the like, as shown. in Figure 4.
  • manually actuated displacement means (30) for example of a wheelbarrow type, or the like, as shown. in Figure 4.
  • the containers (3) can also have handles configured in order to provide the possibility of manual manipulation.
  • the supply containers (3) can have a quadrangular or hexagonal cross section, so that they minimize the free space between them when arranged next to each other.
  • the transport vehicle (1) may have means for generating energy ( 61V ), for example of the photovoltaic type, and means for storing energy ( 62V ), for example of the electric battery type, adapted so that they can supply at least one of: the locomotion means (2) and the unloading means (4).
  • the transport vehicle (1) and its means of locomotion (2) can be provided so that they can successively visit a plurality of places of consumption (A) and thereby supply a certain number of containers (3) to each of these.
  • the supply container (3) may present information means (33) including a unique ID of said container (3).
  • the information means (33) may also include data relating to the type of coffee, its origin and production, as well as a unique identification of the supply container (3).
  • This data can be configured in alphanumeric form and/or in the form of graphic code adapted so that it can be learned automatically, for example through optical reading means.
  • the supply container (3) may have data means (34) adapted so that it can communicate unique data from the container (3), for example data associated with at least one of: ID and georeferencing the same to at least one of: nearby data means ( 5V ) and remote data means (20).
  • said means of locomotion (30) can be provided as a standard load device, for example of a trolley type load, or the like, which can be manually pushed and which can be used for moving other loads. .
  • the supply containers (3) can be configured so that they have an upward direction (U) and must be handled, preferably also transported, at least approximately in that position.
  • the supply containers (3) can have a base region with a raised area in order to facilitate their transport.
  • the supply container (3) is provided with such dimensions and nominal weight when full, that in general the movement of container (3) overboard of the transport vehicle (1) can only, or can be greatly facilitated if performed using at least one of: discharge means (4) and displacement means (30) that can be associated with the container (3), and not only manually.
  • FIGS 5 and 6 represent schematic diagrams of operation according to the invention.
  • the consumption places (A) have at least one beverage preparation apparatus including coffee bean processing means, namely at least one of: roasting means (11) and grinding means (12), so that it can provide roast and ground coffee beans, and at least one beverage preparation apparatus, including at least one beverage preparation device (9) which can be operated with roast and ground coffee beans.
  • coffee bean processing means namely at least one of: roasting means (11) and grinding means (12) so that it can provide roast and ground coffee beans
  • beverage preparation apparatus including at least one beverage preparation device (9) which can be operated with roast and ground coffee beans.
  • the beverage preparation apparatus may include means for providing a flow of water heated to at least 80°C, preferably at least 90°C, and at a flow pressure of at least 5 bar, preferably at least 10 bar.
  • the dispensing process may include discharging coffee beans from a dispensing container, cistern type or similar, on board a transport vehicle (1) to supply containers (3). that can be moved out of doors for this purpose.
  • Supply containers (3) can be moved by displacement means (30) into doors and arranged in an operative discharge position (I) where they are above the beverage preparation device (9).
  • the discharge can be carried out by means of discharge (7), in particular of the type of tap or discharge valve, and by operating the discharge by the force of gravity, as schematically represented in Figure 15, for a supply container (8).
  • a supply container (8) which has a smaller collection volume than the supply container (3) and which can be manually engaged in a direct feed connection, for example by the action of gravity alone, with at least one of said roasting and grinding means (11) , 12).
  • the discharge from the supply container (3) can be manually regulated.
  • the distribution process includes delivering full supply containers (3) to each consumption location (A), and collecting others that are empty, in order to return them to a supply location (B) .
  • the supply containers (3) are then moved into consumption location doors (A) to a storage position or moved to an operative discharge position (I) where the discharge passage (31b) is connected to means outlet (7), for example of the flow duct type with actuation by impulsion means, for example pneumatic, actuated by energy means (6), as shown in greater detail in Figure 16.
  • the discharge can be regulated by means of proximate data ( 5A ) associated in this case with a beverage preparation apparatus.
  • this and all other operations of transferring coffee beans from a first to a second container can be carried out through a tight connection to the outside atmosphere, so that the coffee bean never it is directly exposed to it until it reaches a beverage preparation device (9) .
  • the coffee dispensing process in particular the steps of transporting the supply container (3), unloading the coffee bean at each consumption location (A), including moving the coffee container supply (3) , can be performed semi-automatically with little human intervention, or automatically without direct human intervention, and under the monitoring of remote data means (20) , as will be explained below.
  • the supply container (3) can be configured so that it can be placed in a discharge operative position (I) in which a passage (31) can be connected to discharge means (7), preferably by means of gear.
  • the discharge means (7) including at least one of: an actuatable discharge device (71), for example a drain tap or valve, and a drain connection (72), for example a drain conduit type.
  • the supply container (3) can be configured so that its correct arrangement in the discharge operative position (I) can be detected by automatic means, for example optical, whereby the container (3) and discharge means (7) they are preferably configured so that in the discharge operative position (I) they can be switched on semi-automatically, or automatically, without requiring the use of a tool, preferably without requiring manual intervention for this purpose.
  • the supply container (3) can be configured so that it can be placed in an operative position (I) in which at least one of the following conditions is met:
  • a reference axis (X 3i ), for example of symmetry, of passage (31) is aligned with a reference axis, for example of symmetry, of the discharge means (7);
  • the container (3) is at least partially retracted within a collection arrangement of at least one supply container (3); - the container (3) is supported at least in a perimeter region of a container face different from the passage perimeter region (31);
  • the supply container (3) can be configured so that it can be placed, preferably retained, in a discharge operative position (I) so that the passage (31) can be connected to discharge means (7), wherein said operative position (I) corresponds to at least one of:
  • roasting means 11
  • grinding means (12)
  • beverage preparation device 9 associated with coffee preparation apparatus beverages that can be operated with roasted and ground coffee beans;
  • the container (3) preferably being configured with a front face (F) that is oriented away from a container collection arrangement (3) in the discharge operative position (I).
  • the supply container (3) can be configured so that a passage (31) can be placed in an operative discharge (I) position, in particular at least in the vicinity of, preferably in line with, discharge means (7). ), through a movement in a direction generally transverse to the direction of the force of gravity, the passage (31) being able to be provided in a connecting gear with the discharge means (7) through a movement second at least one of: a transverse direction and a direction similar to the direction of the force of gravity.
  • the system may further comprise at least one of: feeding means (8), roasting means (11) and coffee bean grinding means (12), which can be provided in coffee bean discharge connection downstream of the supply container (3) .
  • the supply container (3) can be adapted so that it can supply coffee bean or substance derived therefrom, preferably via outlet connections that are leak-tight to the outside atmosphere, to at least one of:
  • - supply means (8) having a smaller collection volume than the supply container (3) and adapted so that it can be operatively connected directly to at least one of: roasting means (11) and grinding means (12) of coffee beans, and
  • roasting means (11) and coffee bean grinding means (12) provided in supply connection to an extraction device (9) operable in cycles based on an amount of roasted coffee bean and ground and in a pressurized and heated flow rate, so that roasted and ground coffee beans can be fed automatically or manually to an extraction device (9) and the resulting beverage discharged therefrom, for example to a drinking container (10).
  • the discharge means (7) can be associated with the consumption place (A), preferably with a beverage preparation apparatus, being preferred when its operation can be regulated by at least one of: data means (5) associated with a beverage preparation apparatus at the consumption point (A) and remote data means (20).
  • Figures 7 to 12 represent preferred embodiments of the supply container (3).
  • the supply container (3) can have, in fully loaded condition, a weight of at least 10 kg, preferably at least 25 kg, particularly preferably at least 40 kg, and at most 250 kg, preferably at most 130 kg, particularly preferably at most 75 kg.
  • the container (3) can have a continuous collection volume adapted so that it can collect at least 0.005 m 3 , preferably at least 0.5 m 3 of grain. of coffee or a substance derived from it.
  • the container (3) can be configured with a generally hexagonal parallelepiped shape, or the like, with a base region of at least 0.05 m 2 , preferably at least 0.01 m 2 .
  • the container (3) can have characteristic dimensions, the smallest of which can be greater than 0.3 m, preferably greater than 0.5 m, and the largest of which can be less than 1.5 m , preferably less than 1.2 m.
  • the container (3) can have at least one of: a first dimension (Xi), for example height, and a second dimension (X2), for example width, greater than 0.3 m, preferably greater than 0, 4 m, and less than 1.5 m, preferably less than 0.8 m.
  • the container ( 3 ) can have similar second and third dimensions (X2, X3), transverse to the direction of the force of gravity.
  • the supply container (3) may have a passage (31) of circular section, arranged on a top face.
  • the passage (31) can be arranged on an envelope face (32) off-center with respect to a respective reference axis, preferably on the top face and off-center with respect to the central axis (X) of the container (3).
  • the passage (31) can have a characteristic dimension (Db), for example diameter.
  • the supply container (3) can be configured so that it has an upward side (U), in particular an upwardly oriented top face, in which the passage (31) is located, and must always be manipulated in this position.
  • the supply container (3) can have a front face (F) which corresponds to a side face of the same and which must always face outwards, towards a user access side, with respect to an operative position. discharge (I).
  • information means (33) and data means (34) are provided on said front face (F).
  • the supply container (3) may have data media (34) adapted so that it can exchange data, preferably wirelessly, with nearby data media (5) if and while in a region of proximity previously defined with respect thereto, preferably on the basis of reciprocal validation protocols, and through these with remote data means (20).
  • the data means (34) may include data capturing means, for example georeferencing, and data exchange means, in particular wireless communication, for example of the WIFI type or the like.
  • the data means (34) may include data processing means based on learned data.
  • data means (34) may further include data display means, for example digital screen type, data input means, for example keyboard type, or other types of user interfaces.
  • the supply containers (3) may further include energy storage means (35), for example electric power batteries, and energy generating means (36), for example photovoltaic, provided in operative connection with the energy storage means (35).
  • energy storage means for example electric power batteries
  • energy generating means for example photovoltaic
  • the supply containers (3) can include means for connecting external energy (37) to external energy sources, so that it can allow charging of at least part of said energy storage means (35).
  • the energy storage means (35) is sized so that it can match the energy demand by the data means (34) for at least the majority, preferably the entirety of a distribution cycle between exit and return of the container (3) from a supply point (B).
  • the supply containers (3) can have at least two types of passages (31a, 31b) in the housing (32), adapted for loading and unloading the same, and with at least one of: different relative position and different characteristic dimension (D a , Db ), both types of passages (31a, 31b) being adapted so that they can provide sealing of the interior in a watertight manner to the ambient atmosphere.
  • At least the outlet passage (31b) can have a perimeter adapted, for example with a collar of rigid material, so that it can be releasably engaged with a first outlet connection end, for example a drain duct. circular section.
  • Both the loading (31a) and unloading (31b) passages can be provided on the same side of the housing (32).
  • the loading and unloading passages (31a, 31b) can have a characteristic dimension (D) comprised between 50 and 500 mm, preferably between 100 and 400 mm.
  • the supply container (3) may have a loading passage (31a) having a characteristic dimension (D a ) greater than the characteristic dimension (D b ) of the discharge passage (31b), so that it can provide a greater flow, in this case of loading.
  • the supply container (3) includes a container part and a lid part, wherein the loading passage (31a) is provided in the form of a cap that can be securely retained. watertight in the passage formed by the cross section of a container part.
  • the discharge passage (31b) is provided in the lid.
  • the loading (31a) and unloading (31b) passages are provided on opposite faces, in particular on the top face and on the base face, in particular with the former arranged on the end face. top, and the second on the bottom face.
  • the loading (31a) and discharge (31b) passages may retain flow regulating devices (310a, 310b), for example of the one-way valve type, so that the flow can only flow in a respective direction.
  • Said flow regulation devices (310a, 310b) can be adapted so that they can be actuated to an open position, and return to closing in case of non-actuation.
  • At least the discharge passage (31b) may retain a flow regulating device (310b), adapted so that it only provides flow passage in the event that the data means (34) associated with the container (3) receive an access validation from nearby data means (5) and/or remote data means (20).
  • the loading passage (31a) may be provided on an upwardly oriented side and the discharge passage (31b) may be provided in a region proximate to the base wall, or base wall, of the housing (32), as shown. in Figure 11.
  • the discharge passage (31b) it is preferred when these are adapted so that they can be connected to different types of discharge means (7; 71, 72).
  • the system according to the present invention can have at least two types of supply containers (3, 3') having at least one different dimension, for example their respective height (Xi, Xp), wherein it is advantageous when they have loading/unloading passages (31a, 31b) with similar characteristic dimensions (D a , D b ).
  • the supply containers (3, 3') can be provided with a metallic shell, or in a composite material, preferably compostable, preferably with at least part of the interior surface with a "food grade” finish, and so that an inert atmosphere can be generated and maintained within it.
  • the containers (3, 3') can have a housing (32) with a wall thickness thereof of at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 1 mm, and at most 5 mm, of a preferred mode maximum 3 mm.
  • the supply containers (3) can have means of locomotion (30), for example in the form of a structure associated with a train of at least three or four wheels, so as to which can be moved, for example out and on board a transport vehicle (1), over a traffic lane or in-door space.
  • locomotion for example in the form of a structure associated with a train of at least three or four wheels, so as to which can be moved, for example out and on board a transport vehicle (1), over a traffic lane or in-door space.
  • the locomotion means (30) are specifically configured for only one type of supply container (3), so that they cannot be used for other purposes.
  • the displacement means (30) can be detachably associated with a supply container (3), and be adapted so that they can provide displacement in at least one of: linear and rotational motion, and at least two spatial planes orthogonal to each other, for example on a floor and in elevation above it.
  • the displacement means (30) may have a support structure with a base dimension at least approximately similar to the dimension of the base region of the supply container (3).
  • the displacement means (30) includes at least one of:
  • - actuating means (302) for example of the electric motor type, adapted so that the bearing means (301) can actuate;
  • the actuation means (302) can be configured, in particular with a base portion of similar size, so that they are individually associated with respective bearing means (301).
  • the displacement means (30) can also have respective energy means, including energy storage means (304) that can be associated with external energy sources, so as to provide at least one of: actuation means
  • the power means associated with the displacement means (30) can be additionally connected to the power means associated with the supply container (3) via respective power connections, in particular electrical connections, so that the displacement means (30) they can supply energy to consumers of the container (3), such as their data means (34).
  • the displacement means (30) also have the data means (34) uniquely associated with a certain container (3).
  • the displacement means (30) can be configured so that the supply containers (3) can circulate autonomously, or under control via a respective data communication interface or a user interface.
  • Figures 15 and 16 represent examples of the connection of supply containers (3) to discharge means (7) at the place of consumption, in order to provide beverage preparation apparatus.
  • a discharge passage (31b) of the supply container (3) for example in a side wall thereof, can be connected to an actuatable discharge device (71), for example of the tap or tap type. valve that can be actuated manually.
  • the discharge of a certain amount of coffee can be carried out whenever, and according to the needs identified by a user and for, for example, a supply container (8) configured so that it can be associated in supply connection with means roaster (11) and/or grinding means (12).
  • a discharge passage (31b) of the supply container (3) can be connected to a supply connection (72), for example of the outflow conduit type, with actuation of the outflow by means of thrust.
  • a supply connection (72) for example of the outflow conduit type, with actuation of the outflow by means of thrust.
  • actuation of the outflow by means of thrust including by hydraulic means in the case of a fluid coffee derivative, such as with hydraulic pump-type devices, or by pneumatic means in the case of a granulate or powder, such as air compressor or fan-type devices, driven by energy means (6) associated and regulated preferably by data means (5) associated with the beverage preparation apparatus.
  • the process of operating the container (3) includes moving it to an operative discharge position (I), in particular a predefined position, in which the connection of the discharge passage (31b) to the discharge means can be carried out. (7; 71, 72).
  • discharge operative position (I) can be grasped by at least one of: container data means (34) and first grasping means (51) operatively associated with nearby data means ( 5V ).
  • the discharge operative position (I) may correspond to a position in which the supply container (3) is at least partially retracted above, below or inside a structural collection arrangement, for example in the form of a cabinet. It is preferred when a front face (F) of the container is in this case oriented towards the access side to said collection structure arrangement.
  • FIGS 17 to 22 represent processes and process parts according to the present invention.
  • the dispensing process comprises cycles that include loading coffee beans into a supply container (3) at a supply location (B), and delivering a certain number of containers (3) to a certain number of consumption locations (A). ), whereby the containers (3) are then returned to a supply location (B) where they can be refilled, and thereby start a new delivery cycle.
  • the method may include determining a number of supply containers (3) to be supplied to each of certain consumption locations (A) in a region, among a plurality of consumption locations (A) geographically distant from each other, the include along a route of deliveries by a transport vehicle (1), based on optimization analysis based on data obtained from remote data means (20), for example once a day, including data received from data means (5) operating at each consumption location (A) associated with beverage preparation apparatus.
  • the supply containers (3) may have data media (34) adapted so that they can communicate with proximity data media (5) via wireless data, in particular short-range data, such as WIFI type, or similar.
  • wireless data in particular short-range data, such as WIFI type, or similar.
  • the supply containers (3) are on board the transport vehicle (1), it may be a data connection with the proximity data means ( 5V ), in this case associated with the vehicle (1).
  • the containers (3) are located at a consumption location (A), it may be via a data connection with proximity data means ( 5A ) provided at the consumption locations (A), for example operatively connected to beverage preparation apparatus.
  • said data connection between containers (3) and proximity data means (5; 5V , 5A) includes a pre-validation protocol, for example of the "hand-shake" type, or the like.
  • a data connection can still be established, at least at the consumption location (A), between the supply containers (3) and remote data means (20) via the nearby data means (5). a ) .
  • the data means (34) associated with supply containers (3) can be adapted so that they can establish functional connection with proximity means (5; 5 V , 5 A ) as soon as they are within a perimeter of proximity to them, and as long as they remain within this perimeter.
  • the proximity means (5; 5V , 5A ) can thus contribute to establishing a connection between the data means (34) associated with the container (3) and the remote data means (20).
  • This connection between data means (34) associated with the container (3) and proximity data means (5) associated with the place of consumption (A), for example with beverage preparation apparatus, can advantageously be further used to validating the arrangement of a new container (3) in an operative discharge position (I).
  • the system may include first grasping means (51), for example image sensors, adapted so that they can grasp a unique identification associated with a supply container (3) if it is in operative position (I), and communicate this to nearby data media ( 5A ).
  • first grasping means (51) for example image sensors, adapted so that they can grasp a unique identification associated with a supply container (3) if it is in operative position (I), and communicate this to nearby data media ( 5A ).
  • the system may further include second grasping means (52), for example actuation sensors, associated with different devices of the beverage preparation apparatus, and configured so that they communicate with the nearby data means ( 5A ).
  • second grasping means (52) for example actuation sensors, associated with different devices of the beverage preparation apparatus, and configured so that they communicate with the nearby data means ( 5A ).
  • the nearby data means ( 5A ) to regulate the discharge actuation of the container (3) according to operating data of each preparation cycle. of beverage, in particular each power cycle of the beverage preparation device (9).
  • the operation of the container (3) in discharge may further include the automatic seizure of an ID of the container (3), for example by reading information means (33) thereof through first means of recording. seizure (51) .
  • the unloading operation can be carried out through a plurality of actuations of unloading means (7) or associated power means, it being advantageous when at least one of: data means (34) associated with the container (3 ) and nearby data media (5 A ) can regulate the amount discharged by the container.
  • This adjustment can be made in accordance with operating parameters of the beverage preparation apparatus grasped by second grasping means (52).
  • this adjustment can be made according to a selection entered through a user interface associated with the beverage preparation device.
  • the amount of coffee bean discharged at each discharge actuation can be recorded, and the amount remaining in the supply container (3) calculated.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne des systèmes et des procédés de distribution de café à une pluralité de lieux de consommation (A), des grains de café torréfié et moulu devant être fournis à des appareils de préparation de boissons telles que du café expresso et analogues. En particulier, les systèmes comprennent des récipients de fourniture (3) réutilisables pour la collecte d'une quantité de grains de café ou d'une substance dérivée de celui-ci, et conçus de manière à pouvoir être utilisés en décharge de manière distante par rapport des appareils de préparation de boissons. Les récipients de fourniture (3) peuvent être associés à des moyens de déplacement (30) respectifs de sorte à pouvoir être déplacés vers l'extérieur d'un véhicule de transport (1) et vice versa, et peuvent en outre être déplacés vers une position fonctionnelle de décharge (I) dans laquelle ils peuvent être reliés à des moyens de décharge (7), et vice versa.
PCT/PT2021/050032 2020-10-12 2021-10-11 Systèmes et procédés de distribution de café comprenant des récipients de fourniture de café WO2022081029A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BR112023006187A BR112023006187A2 (pt) 2020-10-12 2021-10-11 Sistemas e processos de distribuição de café incluindo recipientes de fornecimento melhorados
EP21819242.5A EP4227233A2 (fr) 2020-10-12 2021-10-11 Systèmes et procédés de distribution de café comprenant des récipients de fourniture de café

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PT116817 2020-10-12
PT11681720 2020-10-12

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WO2022081029A2 true WO2022081029A2 (fr) 2022-04-21
WO2022081029A3 WO2022081029A3 (fr) 2022-06-02

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EP (1) EP4227233A2 (fr)
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Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4016785A1 (de) * 1990-05-25 1991-11-28 Kautex Maschinenbau Gmbh Fass aus thermoplastischem kunststoff
US7169419B2 (en) * 2001-06-04 2007-01-30 The Procter And Gamble Company Packaging system to provide fresh packed coffee
CA2738727C (fr) * 2008-09-17 2018-01-02 Sara Lee/De N.V. Systeme permettant de preparer une boisson au cafe
NL2002722C2 (nl) * 2009-04-06 2010-10-07 Sara Lee De Nv Koffiebonenverpakking en werkwijze voor het afgeven van een dosis koffiebonen.

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BR112023006187A2 (pt) 2023-05-09
EP4227233A2 (fr) 2023-08-16

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